“However, most people are unaware that data published in the 1940s used to guide international burn prevention standards is inaccurate and needs re-evaluating.”

Ms Andrews’ research involved developing experimental studies to investigate the conditions that cause a severe burn.

Conditions examined included the temperature of the water and the duration of exposure, in order to build an evidence-based injury prediction model.

Ms Andrews is hopeful that her research will be able to inform medicolegal opinions and provide a framework for future scald prevention strategies, and will be presenting her findings at international conferences later in the year.

Ms Andrews said the award came as a surprise, but a very welcome one.

“It wasn’t until after I’d won the award that I realised just how prestigious it was,” she said.

“It’s amazing to get this kind of recognition, particularly when you spend so much time working in the lab.”